William Chen of Schenectady demonstrates a Taiwanese hand puppet during Asian-American Day at the track.

SARATOGA SPRINGS >> Xiaoqing Zhang has learned a great deal about American culture since immigrating to the U.S. from China more than 20 years ago.

On Wednesday, she shared information about her homeland during Saratoga Race Course Asian-American Day festivities, the fifth installment in the track’s International Heritage Series.

While assimilating quite well in America, there’s still one thing Zhang doesn’t quite understand.

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“I don’t know how to pick a horse,” she said, smiling.

Of course, lots other people don’t either, but like Zhang, it doesn’t stop them from having a good time. Activities were based at the Saratoga Pavilion where a colorful Oriental dragon and flags of different nations were on display. Also, several booths were set up offering a variety of Asian foods and information about Asian-American civic and non-profit groups.

Zhang, born in Chuzhou City near Nanjing, represents the Latham-based CCC Chinese School where fall classes will be starting soon.

“It’s an opportunity for me to present my culture, history and language,” she said.

Cinnia Huang, a native of Taiwan, did the same thing with a display of colorful handmade articles such as folding fans, hand towels, lipstick cases and miniature hand-held drums, the kind used in “The Karate Kid” movies.

“I came here in 1972 to get an education,” said Huang, a naturalized U.S. citizen. “I collect Social Security already. Don’t ask me how.”

After earning her doctorate from the University of Connecticut, she had a lengthy career at the Wadsworth Center, the New York State Health Department’s public health laboratory. At one point she worked on tests during the West Nile Virus outbreak.

In retirement, Huang stays busy with the Albany-based Taiwan American Association, which represents about 60 families throughout the Capital Region. Wednesday’s visit to the track was also a treat.

“I like to see people get excited to win,” she said. “It’s a really fun atmosphere.”

The Asian-American theme was evident throughout the grounds as the Chinese Art EDU Dance Team greeted guests and performed on the track apron, while Saratoga Kyokushin Mixed Martial Arts gave a Judo demonstration at the pavilion, followed by a presentation by Pai’s Tai Kwon Do.

Previous events in the International Heritage Series paid tribute to Latino, Italian, Irish and African-American cultures. The series concludes next Wednesday with Saratoga Heritage Day, celebrating the history and culture of Saratoga Springs.

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